Skip to content

Fallopian Tube Guidance via Radiologic Fluoroscopy (Catheter Placement) – Qualitative Assessment

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test involves a radiologic procedure to guide the placement of a catheter in the fallopian tubes, often used for fertility evaluation or diagnostic purposes. It assesses whether the catheter reaches the intended location correctly.

Quick summary

["This procedure helps doctors confirm proper catheter placement for fertility treatments or further diagnostic testing."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
86403-3
Short code
RF Guided Fallopian tube Cath place
Synonyms
RF Guided Fallopian tube Cath place
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
rf
CPT
86430
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What This Test Involves

A fluoroscopic imaging system provides real-time X-ray images to guide the insertion of a catheter into the fallopian tubes. This is typically done under sedation or local anesthesia to ensure comfort. The test may require contrast dye to visualize the tubes clearly during the procedure.

Why It’s Performed

This test is often used in fertility evaluations to check for blockages, structural abnormalities, or proper catheter placement during procedures like tubal ligation reversal or diagnostic hysteroscopy. It may also be part of a broader assessment for unexplained infertility.

Procedure Details

You’ll likely receive sedation or anesthesia to minimize discomfort. The doctor will insert a catheter through the cervix into the fallopian tubes while monitoring the placement via fluoroscopy. Contrast dye may be used to confirm correct positioning. The procedure typically takes 30 minutes to an hour.

Preparation

No special preparation is needed, but inform your healthcare provider about any allergies to contrast dye or medications you’re taking. Avoid eating or drinking for 4–6 hours before the procedure if sedation is involved.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Frequently asked questions

This test helps identify structural issues in the fallopian tubes that could affect fertility or guide correct placement of medical devices during interventions. It may also be used to rule out complications like tube perforation or improper catheter positioning.
This test does not provide lab results for biochemical markers but confirms procedural success or failure in catheter placement. Results are qualitative (yes/no) based on fluoroscopic imaging.
How long will I need to rest after this procedure?
You may need to rest for a few hours afterward, depending on sedation. Follow your doctor’s instructions for activity restrictions, which could include avoiding heavy lifting or strenuous activity for 24–48 hours.
Will I feel pain during the procedure?
You may experience mild discomfort or cramping during the insertion, but sedation or local anesthesia helps minimize pain. Report any severe pain or unusual symptoms (e.g., heavy bleeding) immediately to your healthcare provider.
  1. 1
  2. 2
  3. 3

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy